Image: from Fabrizio Romano X @FabrizioRomano
By Open Chronicle News Desk with Agencies
Belgium produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, overturning a two-goal deficit before sealing a thrilling 3,2 extra time victory over Senegal to book a place in the Round of 16.
In a match that appeared destined to end in Senegalese celebration, Belgium recovered spectacularly during the closing stages before Youri Tielemans converted a last-minute penalty in extra time to complete an unforgettable turnaround.
Senegal in Control
For much of the contest, Senegal looked firmly on course for qualification.
Habib Diarra opened the scoring in the 25th minute after a confident start by the African side, which continued to dominate proceedings with disciplined defending and dangerous attacking transitions.
Shortly after the restart, Ismaïla Sarr doubled Senegal’s advantage in the 51st minute, leaving Belgium facing an early World Cup exit.
The Red Devils struggled to create clear opportunities for much of the match as Senegal maintained control and looked increasingly comfortable protecting their lead.
Belgium’s Late Revival
Everything changed during the final minutes of normal time.
Romelu Lukaku sparked hope for Belgium by reducing the deficit in the 86th minute with a clinical finish, energising both his teammates and the supporters.
Only three minutes later, Youri Tielemans struck the equaliser in the 89th minute, stunning Senegal and forcing the match into extra time after an extraordinary late collapse by the African side.
The dramatic turnaround completely shifted the momentum, with Belgium taking control during the additional 30 minutes.
Tielemans Delivers the Winner
As the match appeared destined for a penalty shootout, one final twist arrived deep into stoppage time of extra time.
Lamine Camara brought down Tielemans inside the penalty area, giving Belgium a golden opportunity to complete the comeback.
Tielemans calmly stepped up in the 120+5th minute and converted from the spot, sealing a remarkable 3,2 victory and sending Belgium into the Round of 16.
The dramatic winner ended one of the tournament’s most entertaining knockout matches and secured Belgium’s place in the next phase.
Round of 16 Awaits
Belgium will now face either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 16, with that fixture set to determine the Red Devils’ next challenge as they continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.
For Senegal, the defeat will be particularly painful after leading for most of the contest and coming within minutes of reaching the next round before Belgium’s stunning late resurgence.